Clostridium difficile screen with PCR Reflex : 1003208

Test Code

CDSREF or 1003208

Alias/See Also

CDS; C. difficile common antigen; glutamate hydrogenate

CPT Codes
87324

Includes

Samples that are negative for both antigen and toxin screens are reported as negative. Samples that are positive for both antigen and toxin screens are reported as positive. C. difficile screen that is negative for toxin but positive for antigen is reflexed to PCR for confirmatory testing at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 87493).

Instructions

Soft or liquid stool:
1. Transfer liquid or soft stool (but not urine) into the container. Avoid mixing toilet paper, water, or soap with the sample. Do NOT submit formed stool.
2. Label the container. Include collection date, time and initials.

NOTE: One test for Clostridium difficile per diarrheal episode should be sufficient. Samples for repeat testing within 5 days of an initial test should not be submitted without consultation with the Laboratory Director.

Transport Container

Submit stool specimen (Min. 1 gram or 1 mL) in a screw capped container without additive or perservative.

Note: Formed stools are not acceptable. Fecal specimens preserved in 10% Formalin, merthiolate formalin(MF), sodium acetate formalin(SAF) or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) cannot be used.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated.

Specimen Stability

Transport as quickly as possible.

Methodology
Screening tests for C difficile glutamate dehydrogenase [GDH, common antigen] and toxin A&B by rapid membrane enzyme immunoassay; if positive for only GDH, reflex to Clostrium diffile toxin B gene by PCR.

Setup Schedule

Sunday - Saturday

Report Available

1 day

Reference Range

For Screen: Negative Antigen, Negative Toxin

Clinical Significance

The analysis of C. difficile in stool specimens aids in the diagnosis of pseudomembranous colitis and antibiotic-associated disease.

Performing Laboratory
med fusion

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.